Last week,  with enthusiasm bouncing off the walls, it was obvious something had occurred at JTHS. Coffee and cappuccino machines had been added to the cafeteria. Where, during breakfast and lunch, students may purchase these beverages.

 

According to sources at NBC news, “The coffeehouse trend comes at a time when many school systems around country are removing junk food and soda machines.”

 

It could also be said, what a cafeteria serves is in reflection to the popular demand and culture of the generation it serves. Whether this will have a negative effect on students is unknown.

 

According to a Professor at John Hopkins University, “Caffeine is likely the world’s most-used mood-altering drug and it does produce mood changes and physical dependence and withdrawal.  It needs to be recognized as a drug.”

 

Despite some concerns regarding the high caffeine consumption in teens, there have been some scientifically proven benefits to the consumption of caffeine.

 

According to Mayo Clinic, “A little caffeine can help you concentrate, sharpen your thoughts, temporarily improve your motor coordination and help you stay energized at work or school.”

 

For most students, the coffee and cappuccino additions are a godsend.

 

When asked whether the coffee and cappuccino appliances were a positive addition to the school cafeteria, Julia Hodnik, freshman, answered “Well, yes, I do. It’s amazing, and it helps the school by creating more revenue for the school and it gives the students something to look forward to in the morning.” Hodnik stated her preference among the many options is “a french vanilla cappuccino or regular coffee with lots of cream and sugar.” As for any suggestions for new cafeteria changes for the future, Hodnik voiced her opinions, “I would like icecream or some type of dessert bar.”

 

Most of the students have already expresses their pleasure to the new cafeteria additions. As for the teachers, much can be said otherwise.

 

Mrs. Nelson, phys. ed. teacher here at JTHS,  stated when asked if she thought the coffee and cappuccino machines were a positive addition to the school, “No, I do not understand how these machines comply with health standards in the school. The amount of sugar, caffeine, and fat in the cappuccinos are unhealthy and unnecessary. How are we supposed to teach students to lead healthy lives?”  According to Nelson, in regards to noticing any different behavior in students, “No, I have not seen any changes, yet. As a gym teacher, students are always all over the place anyway so it’s hard to tell.” Looking to the future, Nelson answered that if any new additions were to be made to the cafeteria, “They used to have a really nice salad bar, very healthy, with lots of color. I would love to see that again.”

 

Concerns have been made whether students have enough time in the morning to drink their beverages. It has been announced, for a trial period, that students will be allowed to bring their drinks to PODS, as long as they follow certain rules regarding this decision.

 

School lunches have already been a controversial topic in recent years. Many argue that students should  have the right to choose what they want to eat, while others believe school lunches should have to follow strict guidelines of health. Respecting both of these views can be a delicate matter. It is clear to see many changes will be coming to JTHS.